INS 296 is the code for malic acid
The tart taste of apples. Used to sharpen fruit drinks, boiled sweets and jams.
- What it does
- Controls acidity An acidity regulator
- Also printed as
- DL-Malic acid
- Vegetarian?
- Depends on the maker Source not stated on the label
- In the Zabel score
- Takes no points off Method 1.0.0
- In our catalogue
- 156 packs List it in their ingredients
Is INS 296 vegetarian?
It depends on the maker. INS 296 can be made from plant or animal sources and the label does not say which, so the code tells you nothing either way. The green or brown mark on the pack is the declaration to go by.
| Food category | Share | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Chips and crisps | 28% | |
| Biscuits and cookies | 12% | |
| Other snacks | 11% | |
| Namkeen and savoury snacks | 8% | |
| Other beverages | 7% | |
| Everything else | 34% |
Counted from the 156 packs in Zabel's catalogue that list INS 296, 135 of which have a food category so far. Counted 4 Nov 2026.
What does the evidence say about INS 296?
We grade an additive by the evidence about it, not by whether it sounds like a chemical, and we make no claim about whether a pack complies with FSSAI rules.
No numerical limit and no identified concern at food levels.
Does Zabel mark INS 296 down?
No. On the evidence we hold it takes nothing off the score (method 1.0.0). Read the method.
Questions people search
What is INS 296?
INS 296 is the code for malic acid, an acidity regulator. The tart taste of apples. Used to sharpen fruit drinks, boiled sweets and jams.
Is INS 296 vegetarian?
It depends on the maker. INS 296 can be made from plant or animal sources and the label does not say which, so the code tells you nothing either way. The green or brown mark on the pack is the declaration to go by.
What does the evidence say about INS 296?
No numerical limit and no identified concern at food levels.
Does Zabel mark INS 296 down?
No. On the evidence we hold it takes nothing off the score (method 1.0.0).
What other names is INS 296 printed under?
Packs also print it as DL-Malic acid, or as the bare number 296 in brackets after the ingredient.
Sources
- 01 Evaluations of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) WHO / FAO, 2024
- 02 Zabel catalogue - pack counts, food categories and the codes printed alongside 4 Nov 2026
Entry updated 19 Sep 2026 · Not reviewed by a dietitian yet · Report an error on this page
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